The Marines from the Headquarters and Service Company and the Weapons Company of the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment spent 3 months training in California and then 7 months in Iraq involved in counter-insurgency missions in Anbar province.
At least 17 of these reserve troops are also law enforcement officers in civilian life on Long Island. There were about 20 ladder trucks that lined the avenue. It was a beautiful sight.
Around 2,000 well-wishers waved banners and chanted "Thank you" as bright yellow buses carrying the troops - escorted the final 100 yards by kilted bagpipers - arrived at the military facility on Stewart Avenue in Garden City, Long Island shortly before 7 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2009
There was a quiet anticipation as everyone set-up and waited for the arrival of the troops. THEN...great excitement!! as the buses arrived BUT... then there was a bit more waiting for family and friends as they waited for their soldiers to de-bus and get their gear. Finally they greeted and hugged with more joyous cheers.
Many signs were held up for the soldiers and families to find each other in the crowd and then ...the peaceful, quiet as everyone headed home.
More pictures here: Part 1:
by redsquirrel08
and
Part 2:
by redsquirrel08
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